I can't believe how busy the year has been! I have looked back on this year and I am so happy to be where I am today. I know this is just the beginning and I am hoping there is more to come. With 12 weddings this year on my own, I am hoping that this year will be just as productive :) Currently, I have 2 weddings booked for next year, which is exactly where I was last year. At least I am on the same track.
As well, I have recently started doing a little bit of work for the Black Forest Inn in Conestogo. They had a dinner-theatre show called 'Christmas with the Legends' that was absolutely fantastic! The show was filled with numerous impersonators such as Tina Turner and Lady Gaga, and I was amazed at how long the sets were - 60 and 90 minute sets. Showcase Entertainment certainly put off a great show. Stay tuned for a promo I am working on :)
Anyway, I should be off ringing in the New Year. Thanks to everyone who has kept reading and I hope to talk to all of you soon :) Feel free to check out my website at www.wix.com/ahartery9891/amandahartery for updates as well. Finally, check out my review at http://www.theweddingring.ca/reviewshttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif-in-the-ring/hartery-productions and be sure to click the 'like' button :)
Amanda
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Wrapping up the Year
I have learned a lot this year. I look back on my other blogs and realized that where I am now is miles away from where I started.
Here's a few points:
- Always take a break when you need to. I don't know how many nights I had at the computer where I worked as hard as I could but was easily distracted. It's better to just take a half hour for yourself, read a book, get away from whatever you're doing and come back refreshed.
- A full time job with a business on the side is a lot of work! I thought that I would have more time to edit and for myself, but I just realized that I don't want to be working on a video when I come home from a long day at work. I also realize that I need to schedule myself more if I want to get it all done, and stick to my schedule.
- I love what I do! I really enjoy shooting and editing weddings more than I thought I would. I like that my work is always happy, fun, and there is always room for improvement and different things to learn. I look forward to going to each wedding I shoot and I can't wait for next year to begin!
In the last month, I have gone to 2 wedding shows - The Wedding Expo in St. Thomas and The Dream Come True Wedding Show in London. These were put on by A&M Sounds. I am hoping that these wedding shows will pan out to more business. I have already received one amazing e-mail from someone who was interested in a wedding video:
Hi Amanda,
I must admit you really did change my mind about have a videographer at my wedding I do really want to have video of speeches and first dances and things that pictures can capture but, you can't hear those words or see those funny moments again. I also would like to have a video for my uncle in the Netherlands who has MS and will not be able to attend the wedding. I was interested in the half day package 1 camera to capture the ceremony and reception. I'm a budget bride so this package will capture everything I would like to capture but still stay within my price range. I'm glad you were at the bridal show to show me how a video could add to my memories of our special day.
Thank you!
My next wedding shows I believe will be in the Kitchener area. I am looking into attending the Wedding Ring's Bridal Expo on Jan. 7th and 8th, as well as the Paris Bridal Gala on Jan. 22nd. Hope to see you there!!
Here's a few points:
- Always take a break when you need to. I don't know how many nights I had at the computer where I worked as hard as I could but was easily distracted. It's better to just take a half hour for yourself, read a book, get away from whatever you're doing and come back refreshed.
- A full time job with a business on the side is a lot of work! I thought that I would have more time to edit and for myself, but I just realized that I don't want to be working on a video when I come home from a long day at work. I also realize that I need to schedule myself more if I want to get it all done, and stick to my schedule.
- I love what I do! I really enjoy shooting and editing weddings more than I thought I would. I like that my work is always happy, fun, and there is always room for improvement and different things to learn. I look forward to going to each wedding I shoot and I can't wait for next year to begin!
In the last month, I have gone to 2 wedding shows - The Wedding Expo in St. Thomas and The Dream Come True Wedding Show in London. These were put on by A&M Sounds. I am hoping that these wedding shows will pan out to more business. I have already received one amazing e-mail from someone who was interested in a wedding video:
Hi Amanda,
I must admit you really did change my mind about have a videographer at my wedding I do really want to have video of speeches and first dances and things that pictures can capture but, you can't hear those words or see those funny moments again. I also would like to have a video for my uncle in the Netherlands who has MS and will not be able to attend the wedding. I was interested in the half day package 1 camera to capture the ceremony and reception. I'm a budget bride so this package will capture everything I would like to capture but still stay within my price range. I'm glad you were at the bridal show to show me how a video could add to my memories of our special day.
Thank you!
My next wedding shows I believe will be in the Kitchener area. I am looking into attending the Wedding Ring's Bridal Expo on Jan. 7th and 8th, as well as the Paris Bridal Gala on Jan. 22nd. Hope to see you there!!
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Berlin Shorts Video
Hey guys!
Here is a short (emphasis on short) video I have been working on for the Berlin Shorts competition!
I hope it's a great night!
Will come up with a much more swanky video for the next one - still swamped with wedding videos!
Let me know what you think!
Amanda
Here is a short (emphasis on short) video I have been working on for the Berlin Shorts competition!
I hope it's a great night!
Will come up with a much more swanky video for the next one - still swamped with wedding videos!
Let me know what you think!
Amanda
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
New Review in The Wedding Ring!
I can't believe it! I finally have someone to review my work :)
The Wedding Ring out of London, Ontario has placed a review up of my company. Feel free to read through and I hope you like what you see :)
http://www.theweddingring.ca/reviews-in-the-ring/hartery-productions
More to come soon!
Amanda
The Wedding Ring out of London, Ontario has placed a review up of my company. Feel free to read through and I hope you like what you see :)
http://www.theweddingring.ca/reviews-in-the-ring/hartery-productions
More to come soon!
Amanda
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Nirvana - Adam Itkoff
“I think Kafka knew it,” she said through pierced lips. Her eyes were dismal and tired, the words falling off her tongue into some abyss of futile thought.
“Knew what?” I asked, pulling the cigarette from my mouth and savoring the toxins filling my throat and lungs.
“He knew that at the center of all things, there’s something horrible and unknown,” she said, her eyes drifting up enough to briefly meet mine and then darting quickly back down to the hot concrete.
“You’re too ambiguous. I can’t answer you because I don’t know what you’re trying to say. And besides, if it’s unknown, then why is it so horrible?”
“Because,” she said, “it’s horrible precisely because it’s unknown. That’s why we’re afraid of the dark. It’s not the darkness itself that frightens us, but we’re scared shitless of what’s hiding behind the darkness. Fear was at the root of Kafka’s angst. So many thinkers and artists can’t cope with that same thing. Nietzsche was desperately ill, Pollock was a raving alcoholic, Cobain went crazy. That’s hardly the tip of the iceberg. These minds saw enough of the world to know the chaos surrounding it. They saw the horror and drowned in it.”
“I think you’re wrong. I think Kafka knew somewhere that there is something infinite and beautiful in and beyond life. But we are trapped by the human condition. We fail to see what is so obvious. We live for tomorrow but all we ever need is today. I think he knew that but could never embody it. I think his intellect prevented him from feeling peace, but he knew that at the center of things was not something horrible and unknown. No, he knew that at the center is something heaving, eternal and inexplicably divine. All Kafka really needed was to drop some acid on a sunny day.”
“I think you’re full of shit,” she said.
“Well,” I shot back, maybe too soon, “I don’t think you can just read Metamorphosis and pretend to know what the fuck you’re talking about!” I crushed the cigarette against the sole of my shoe and exhaled. This was the same talk we’d had a thousand times. It was just taking a new form this time. She was talking about life as some meaningless entity, something that we try desperately to see but can’t, like we’re staring into the sun. And I was the blind optimist, trying to see the beauty in those bright blue spots burned into the back of my mind.
“You don’t have to be so abrasive,” she said, obviously hurt and beginning to tremble.
“I’m sorry, babe,” I said. I had forgotten again how easy it was to shake her. I reached into my pocket for another cigarette. And to think I was contesting her nihilism. After finding out she was suicidal, her parents had been quick to sedate her with an endless supply of prescriptions. It was more lucrative for the medical world to treat her than to cure her, like swallowing saltwater to quench a thirst. They knew that every second she spent taking those damn pills was another moment of relative quiet. And the therapists could never help her. They were all too human.
“I just don’t know anymore,” she said, starting to cry. Her eyes were wet, beautiful against her skin. She had such a pure heart. It always hurt to see her like this.
“You never knew,” I joked. “And everyone is lost. You remember the American dream? Well here we are, spending our time watching television, rushing to get to jobs we hate, shopping for shit we don’t need, overeating, throwing up … and getting drunk to numb it all. The pain is universal. We’re all just treading water.”
She stayed still, her sobs beginning to quiet down. By the look of it, the weight of the world seemed to rest squarely on her alone. I would shoulder it as best as I could, but at night the weight would always come back to her. She would talk in her sleep, sharing her anxious abstractions, soft curses and cold sweats.
“Where did everyone go?” she said quietly, watching four lanes of traffic drift past us. “These people don’t look like they have lived a day in their lives.”
“They have,” I said, trying to calm her. “I’m sure they live at least two days a week.”
We both laughed.
“Things are going to get better, babe,” I said moving toward her, “trust in me, trust in beauty, trust in love.”
She kissed me and sighed. Then she started to giggle, enjoying the slight rush that sometimes comes after a cathartic cry.
—Adam Itkoff
“Knew what?” I asked, pulling the cigarette from my mouth and savoring the toxins filling my throat and lungs.
“He knew that at the center of all things, there’s something horrible and unknown,” she said, her eyes drifting up enough to briefly meet mine and then darting quickly back down to the hot concrete.
“You’re too ambiguous. I can’t answer you because I don’t know what you’re trying to say. And besides, if it’s unknown, then why is it so horrible?”
“Because,” she said, “it’s horrible precisely because it’s unknown. That’s why we’re afraid of the dark. It’s not the darkness itself that frightens us, but we’re scared shitless of what’s hiding behind the darkness. Fear was at the root of Kafka’s angst. So many thinkers and artists can’t cope with that same thing. Nietzsche was desperately ill, Pollock was a raving alcoholic, Cobain went crazy. That’s hardly the tip of the iceberg. These minds saw enough of the world to know the chaos surrounding it. They saw the horror and drowned in it.”
“I think you’re wrong. I think Kafka knew somewhere that there is something infinite and beautiful in and beyond life. But we are trapped by the human condition. We fail to see what is so obvious. We live for tomorrow but all we ever need is today. I think he knew that but could never embody it. I think his intellect prevented him from feeling peace, but he knew that at the center of things was not something horrible and unknown. No, he knew that at the center is something heaving, eternal and inexplicably divine. All Kafka really needed was to drop some acid on a sunny day.”
“I think you’re full of shit,” she said.
“Well,” I shot back, maybe too soon, “I don’t think you can just read Metamorphosis and pretend to know what the fuck you’re talking about!” I crushed the cigarette against the sole of my shoe and exhaled. This was the same talk we’d had a thousand times. It was just taking a new form this time. She was talking about life as some meaningless entity, something that we try desperately to see but can’t, like we’re staring into the sun. And I was the blind optimist, trying to see the beauty in those bright blue spots burned into the back of my mind.
“You don’t have to be so abrasive,” she said, obviously hurt and beginning to tremble.
“I’m sorry, babe,” I said. I had forgotten again how easy it was to shake her. I reached into my pocket for another cigarette. And to think I was contesting her nihilism. After finding out she was suicidal, her parents had been quick to sedate her with an endless supply of prescriptions. It was more lucrative for the medical world to treat her than to cure her, like swallowing saltwater to quench a thirst. They knew that every second she spent taking those damn pills was another moment of relative quiet. And the therapists could never help her. They were all too human.
“I just don’t know anymore,” she said, starting to cry. Her eyes were wet, beautiful against her skin. She had such a pure heart. It always hurt to see her like this.
“You never knew,” I joked. “And everyone is lost. You remember the American dream? Well here we are, spending our time watching television, rushing to get to jobs we hate, shopping for shit we don’t need, overeating, throwing up … and getting drunk to numb it all. The pain is universal. We’re all just treading water.”
She stayed still, her sobs beginning to quiet down. By the look of it, the weight of the world seemed to rest squarely on her alone. I would shoulder it as best as I could, but at night the weight would always come back to her. She would talk in her sleep, sharing her anxious abstractions, soft curses and cold sweats.
“Where did everyone go?” she said quietly, watching four lanes of traffic drift past us. “These people don’t look like they have lived a day in their lives.”
“They have,” I said, trying to calm her. “I’m sure they live at least two days a week.”
We both laughed.
“Things are going to get better, babe,” I said moving toward her, “trust in me, trust in beauty, trust in love.”
She kissed me and sighed. Then she started to giggle, enjoying the slight rush that sometimes comes after a cathartic cry.
—Adam Itkoff
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Self Employment and Today's Economy
My experience with getting grants/loans is a little... daunting. To say the least. I knew it would be, but not to this extreme.
For example, I called one place. They advertise they have business consultants that will help you get together your business plan and 'improve the way you do business.' They asked how much I was looking for, which I don't think is a crazy amount, and then they asked how much capital I could throw back into it. Basically, I have to put forward 20% of the loan to get it. Well... if I had that kind of cash, I wouldn't be looking for a grant. LOL. I would have put it towards what I need to buy myself. So, it's interesting to say the least.
So, if you don't like to hear people rant about society and government, please stop here. At least I warned you.
What's up with society today? With everyone getting laid off/fired/put out of work, how are people supposed to live? Working multiple part time jobs works for a while, but plans for advancement in any position seems to not be an option. Even the regular barista can't move up. I understand, part time workers are cheaper for the business, but this is what defines a high turn-over rate. People won't be interested in staying in a position unless there is an opportunity to gain more of a benefit from their position. Even if that is just to learn more about their job. I know, there is factory work, where some people work day in, day out doing the same job without a thought... but what about those people who can't or won't do that kind of work? Personally, I would get bored with that in a heartbeat, and my productivity would hit an all-time low after a week.
So here's my resolution for this - Harper needs to put more effort into making the new jobs he has created more stable. The news is always talking about how many jobs have been created this month. I think Harper needs to turn this around and say how many jobs have been changed to a stable status; where society can afford their monthly bills without pushing themselves into more debt. Whether this means creating a certain statistic where this many hours=stable depending on the rate of minimum wage and location, or creating a full-time/part time status, I think Canada could see a big difference in the productivity in the workplace sector. Employees would be focused, dedicated, and not stressed about going from job to job just to make ends meet.
What are people's thoughts on this? I would love to hear from you.
Amanda
For example, I called one place. They advertise they have business consultants that will help you get together your business plan and 'improve the way you do business.' They asked how much I was looking for, which I don't think is a crazy amount, and then they asked how much capital I could throw back into it. Basically, I have to put forward 20% of the loan to get it. Well... if I had that kind of cash, I wouldn't be looking for a grant. LOL. I would have put it towards what I need to buy myself. So, it's interesting to say the least.
So, if you don't like to hear people rant about society and government, please stop here. At least I warned you.
What's up with society today? With everyone getting laid off/fired/put out of work, how are people supposed to live? Working multiple part time jobs works for a while, but plans for advancement in any position seems to not be an option. Even the regular barista can't move up. I understand, part time workers are cheaper for the business, but this is what defines a high turn-over rate. People won't be interested in staying in a position unless there is an opportunity to gain more of a benefit from their position. Even if that is just to learn more about their job. I know, there is factory work, where some people work day in, day out doing the same job without a thought... but what about those people who can't or won't do that kind of work? Personally, I would get bored with that in a heartbeat, and my productivity would hit an all-time low after a week.
So here's my resolution for this - Harper needs to put more effort into making the new jobs he has created more stable. The news is always talking about how many jobs have been created this month. I think Harper needs to turn this around and say how many jobs have been changed to a stable status; where society can afford their monthly bills without pushing themselves into more debt. Whether this means creating a certain statistic where this many hours=stable depending on the rate of minimum wage and location, or creating a full-time/part time status, I think Canada could see a big difference in the productivity in the workplace sector. Employees would be focused, dedicated, and not stressed about going from job to job just to make ends meet.
What are people's thoughts on this? I would love to hear from you.
Amanda
Sunday, February 27, 2011
It's Been A While...
So. I needed a break. Why? I think I just needed to take a look at what I was doing and re-focus. I feel like I am putting way too much effort into things that aren't certain. I think this freaked me out when I first realized this, but now I feel comfortable with it. Here's my account of my last couple weeks.
I realized that I have no certainty with employment. When I started college, I remember thinking that I would find a job. Not right away, but in a couple years. Now, a couple years later, I feel like I am right back at the start. Yes, I have some great experience in television. I have learned A LOT about the industry, how things work, and the differences in technology. However, stability feels unattainable. The carrot feels like it's being dangled from a string on a rolling spool. Or... at least this is what I thought.
After sitting down and having a momentary freak-out, I figured that there is nothing I can change about it. Even if I manage to get the proverbial carrot, I will always be shown another. And I'll want it. And I'll strive, stress, and push to get it. Pushing for a career, however, isn't all it's cut out to be. For example, last week, I remember waking up at 6:00 to go in to work for 8:30, to get off around 3, to drive half an hour, to go to work from 4-12. What a life. Thankfully, I slept in the next morning. How people do this on a regular basis I will never understand. HOW I DO THIS on a regular basis I don't understand.
So. for sanity's sake, I am choosing not to care. I'm choosing to not gear my life around a 'What if.' Whatever happens, happens. All I can say about that. Hope doesn't get results when the actions are out of your control.
That being said, I reset my goals. Instead of looking for more jobs, I'm going to create my own. I know what I want. I know what I am capable of. I am choosing to apply to grants and loans so that I can get my business started. I called the Small Business Finance Centre and made an investment in myself. I am more excited about this than I ever have been.
I can do this. No 'What If' necessary.
:)
I realized that I have no certainty with employment. When I started college, I remember thinking that I would find a job. Not right away, but in a couple years. Now, a couple years later, I feel like I am right back at the start. Yes, I have some great experience in television. I have learned A LOT about the industry, how things work, and the differences in technology. However, stability feels unattainable. The carrot feels like it's being dangled from a string on a rolling spool. Or... at least this is what I thought.
After sitting down and having a momentary freak-out, I figured that there is nothing I can change about it. Even if I manage to get the proverbial carrot, I will always be shown another. And I'll want it. And I'll strive, stress, and push to get it. Pushing for a career, however, isn't all it's cut out to be. For example, last week, I remember waking up at 6:00 to go in to work for 8:30, to get off around 3, to drive half an hour, to go to work from 4-12. What a life. Thankfully, I slept in the next morning. How people do this on a regular basis I will never understand. HOW I DO THIS on a regular basis I don't understand.
So. for sanity's sake, I am choosing not to care. I'm choosing to not gear my life around a 'What if.' Whatever happens, happens. All I can say about that. Hope doesn't get results when the actions are out of your control.
That being said, I reset my goals. Instead of looking for more jobs, I'm going to create my own. I know what I want. I know what I am capable of. I am choosing to apply to grants and loans so that I can get my business started. I called the Small Business Finance Centre and made an investment in myself. I am more excited about this than I ever have been.
I can do this. No 'What If' necessary.
:)
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Diet and Life Changes
Business-wise, not too too much has changed since the last time I wrote. I am still working on editing a wedding and promoting to the brides at the Paris Bridal Gala.
But... I have some new diet plans, recipes, and life changes I would like to talk about.
This week, I kicked eating healthy into high gear. The last few weeks I've noticed that I was eating WAY too much junk food. I started drinking protein shakes for breakfast again as well.
While on a search for something to mix up my mornings, I found Green Monsters. Basically, it's a shake with spinach in it. The first time I read this, I thought they were going to taste disgusting. But you don't taste the spinach at all, and it's a great way to get some vitamins in the morning. Here's my recipe:
2 scoops protein
1-1.5 cups of milk
1 cup of spinach
1 tablespoon of flax
1-1.5 cups of blueberries (I'm using these because I have a TON of them. But you can substitute what you like).
Blend together and drink. I have vanilla cream flavoured protein, so it really mixes well together. And it tastes great!! I have drank these for the last 3 days and already I have noticed that my skin is in much better shape.
Next on my diet plan is the cheapest, healthiest meal out there - soup. My parents have been experimenting with their new crock pot for the last while, and they discovered this recipe for Hamburger Soup that is to die for. It's also the cheapest thing to make - I would say it'll cost about $16 to buy all of what you need, and you will have enough veggies left over to make another 3-4 soups if you want to.
1 lb ground beef, cooked and drained
28 oz. can of stewed tomatoes
1 c peeled potatoes
1 c carrots
1 c onion
1 c celery
4 c hot water
1 tbsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf, crumbled.
Mix, cook in crock pot for 6-8 hours on high or 8-10 hours on low. Be prepared to be amazed at how good this is.
I also have a crock pot recipe book hanging around. I went searching and found a great recipe for chicken soup as well:
6 c prepared chicken broth (or water)
1 can of chickpeas
1.5 c onion
0.5 c carrot
0.5 c celery
3 plum tomoatoes, chopped with seeds removed
1/4 c tomato paste
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp pepper
1 lb chicken thighs, cooked and chopped.
Same instructions as above. Now, this does taste different because it has more onion in it; I find it's more acidic, but still very good. Both of these recipes makes about 6 full bowls of soup. I love taking leftovers into work, so this works perfect for me.
On another note, I also worked out with a personal trainer today. He was really nice and pin-pointed some key moves that I should be incorporating. As much as I rely on my Women's Health book religiously, I'm starting to get bored of the same routine. My body is also getting used to it a bit too much, and I think if I up my weights too much I'll start to look like a man. I love that I'm seeing results now and I feel much better, but I want to really slim down my midsection before the summer. I told him I wanted to have a flat stomach by the end of February, so we'll see :P
As for life changes, I think I've decided I am not going to stick with anything that doesn't make me happy anymore. I see people becoming complacent with what they are doing and I can't understand why people wouldn't want to change things up. That being said, I want to start eating better, working out more, enjoying my jobs more, and scheduling myself some down time. I enjoy what I do, but I don't want to be defined as the girl who can't have fun either. I still hope to take a vacation soon, get some new books (the one I have been reading is SO LONG, but really good) and chill with friends (a trip to Sarnia soon is a definite must).
Anyway, I have babbled on enough. Time to clean up my kitchen and do some editing. Let me know what you think of the recipes if you try them!!
But... I have some new diet plans, recipes, and life changes I would like to talk about.
This week, I kicked eating healthy into high gear. The last few weeks I've noticed that I was eating WAY too much junk food. I started drinking protein shakes for breakfast again as well.
While on a search for something to mix up my mornings, I found Green Monsters. Basically, it's a shake with spinach in it. The first time I read this, I thought they were going to taste disgusting. But you don't taste the spinach at all, and it's a great way to get some vitamins in the morning. Here's my recipe:
2 scoops protein
1-1.5 cups of milk
1 cup of spinach
1 tablespoon of flax
1-1.5 cups of blueberries (I'm using these because I have a TON of them. But you can substitute what you like).
Blend together and drink. I have vanilla cream flavoured protein, so it really mixes well together. And it tastes great!! I have drank these for the last 3 days and already I have noticed that my skin is in much better shape.
Next on my diet plan is the cheapest, healthiest meal out there - soup. My parents have been experimenting with their new crock pot for the last while, and they discovered this recipe for Hamburger Soup that is to die for. It's also the cheapest thing to make - I would say it'll cost about $16 to buy all of what you need, and you will have enough veggies left over to make another 3-4 soups if you want to.
1 lb ground beef, cooked and drained
28 oz. can of stewed tomatoes
1 c peeled potatoes
1 c carrots
1 c onion
1 c celery
4 c hot water
1 tbsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf, crumbled.
Mix, cook in crock pot for 6-8 hours on high or 8-10 hours on low. Be prepared to be amazed at how good this is.
I also have a crock pot recipe book hanging around. I went searching and found a great recipe for chicken soup as well:
6 c prepared chicken broth (or water)
1 can of chickpeas
1.5 c onion
0.5 c carrot
0.5 c celery
3 plum tomoatoes, chopped with seeds removed
1/4 c tomato paste
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp pepper
1 lb chicken thighs, cooked and chopped.
Same instructions as above. Now, this does taste different because it has more onion in it; I find it's more acidic, but still very good. Both of these recipes makes about 6 full bowls of soup. I love taking leftovers into work, so this works perfect for me.
On another note, I also worked out with a personal trainer today. He was really nice and pin-pointed some key moves that I should be incorporating. As much as I rely on my Women's Health book religiously, I'm starting to get bored of the same routine. My body is also getting used to it a bit too much, and I think if I up my weights too much I'll start to look like a man. I love that I'm seeing results now and I feel much better, but I want to really slim down my midsection before the summer. I told him I wanted to have a flat stomach by the end of February, so we'll see :P
As for life changes, I think I've decided I am not going to stick with anything that doesn't make me happy anymore. I see people becoming complacent with what they are doing and I can't understand why people wouldn't want to change things up. That being said, I want to start eating better, working out more, enjoying my jobs more, and scheduling myself some down time. I enjoy what I do, but I don't want to be defined as the girl who can't have fun either. I still hope to take a vacation soon, get some new books (the one I have been reading is SO LONG, but really good) and chill with friends (a trip to Sarnia soon is a definite must).
Anyway, I have babbled on enough. Time to clean up my kitchen and do some editing. Let me know what you think of the recipes if you try them!!
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Reaffirmation of Confidence
All I can say is wow... I don't think I've been this busy in a while. I mean, I'm always busy, but my work normally doesn't involve this much travel.
Where to begin... Last weekend I went to the Paris Bridal Gala as a vendor. I was very excited to see everyone there and do some networking. With over 300 brides in attendance, the place was packed. Also, I was set up across from a popular decorator, so I had a ton of traffic by my booth. However, I learned I really need to get some sort of banner with some drapery - everyone's booth was all jazzed up with fancy artwork, and mine was pretty plain. I managed to hand out 3/4 of the flyers and cards I brought with me - I hope that boosts business!
Now, when I signed up to do the Gala, I knew I had 3 weddings to do this summer. As a regular person who can't predict the future, I had no idea that I would get another 3 weddings booked in the span of a week - all before I went to the Gala :) All confirmations were done through e-mail, but I always arrange a follow-up meeting. This meant I had 3 meetings to go to on top of work. As well, I met with the bride of the wedding I shot in December to go over the footage. Word to the wise - scheduling is key!
The only thing I wish I had done more of this week was go to the gym. I had arranged my work schedule to a tee, but I didn't get around to the gym as much as I wanted to. I try to go every day for about an hour and a half, but this was just not happening this week :( I managed to squeeze in a couple small workouts at the gym at work, but it wasn't the same. On a positive note, I am talking to a personal trainer through work; I want to have abs by the end of February. I need to get some new exercises and a plan figured out to do this. I'm getting there - I measured myself this week and found out I have lost 4 inches across my midsection - but I need a good push in the right direction. I think this will work :)
With all this new development happening every week, I feel like my confidence in my business is continuously being renewed. I am always happy with where this business is going and I'm really excited to see myself grow. I just have to manage my schedule so I won't burn out :)
Have a great weekend!!
Where to begin... Last weekend I went to the Paris Bridal Gala as a vendor. I was very excited to see everyone there and do some networking. With over 300 brides in attendance, the place was packed. Also, I was set up across from a popular decorator, so I had a ton of traffic by my booth. However, I learned I really need to get some sort of banner with some drapery - everyone's booth was all jazzed up with fancy artwork, and mine was pretty plain. I managed to hand out 3/4 of the flyers and cards I brought with me - I hope that boosts business!
Now, when I signed up to do the Gala, I knew I had 3 weddings to do this summer. As a regular person who can't predict the future, I had no idea that I would get another 3 weddings booked in the span of a week - all before I went to the Gala :) All confirmations were done through e-mail, but I always arrange a follow-up meeting. This meant I had 3 meetings to go to on top of work. As well, I met with the bride of the wedding I shot in December to go over the footage. Word to the wise - scheduling is key!
The only thing I wish I had done more of this week was go to the gym. I had arranged my work schedule to a tee, but I didn't get around to the gym as much as I wanted to. I try to go every day for about an hour and a half, but this was just not happening this week :( I managed to squeeze in a couple small workouts at the gym at work, but it wasn't the same. On a positive note, I am talking to a personal trainer through work; I want to have abs by the end of February. I need to get some new exercises and a plan figured out to do this. I'm getting there - I measured myself this week and found out I have lost 4 inches across my midsection - but I need a good push in the right direction. I think this will work :)
With all this new development happening every week, I feel like my confidence in my business is continuously being renewed. I am always happy with where this business is going and I'm really excited to see myself grow. I just have to manage my schedule so I won't burn out :)
Have a great weekend!!
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
BIG NEWS!!!
I have officially concluded that I need to do more marketing. I mean, Kijiji is great (until they start blocking my ads), and I have received a lot of business off of it, but I need to really start promoting myself in a more professional setting.
So... here's my news!! I am going to participate in 2 bridal conventions! One in Paris and one in Woodstock. Why those places? Well, Paris only has one other videographer signed up (who will be from out of town - hometown-ish advantage!) and Woodstock doesn't have one yet! I go into Paris this Sunday and I'm so nervous! I hope people really go for it, but I don't think it will be a problem :)
As well, I have 2 - thats right, 2!!! - more wedding sign-ups for this year. As well as another that might be in the works! That puts me to 5 this year (counting the one in December) altogether! I feel like I'm actually getting somewhere with this. I feel like I am accomplishing something with this. We'll see where it gets me!
In other news, I have been going to the gym A LOT in the last couple weeks - I think I've only missed one day. I am doing a bunch of ab routines, so I am starting to see my stomach and hips slim down. Beach bod by summer? Definitely :)
Anyway, that is my life update for the last little while. So nervous/excited about the weekend. I can't wait! If anyone has any ideas out there about what I can bring (besides the obvious business cards, samples, and camera) please let me know!
So... here's my news!! I am going to participate in 2 bridal conventions! One in Paris and one in Woodstock. Why those places? Well, Paris only has one other videographer signed up (who will be from out of town - hometown-ish advantage!) and Woodstock doesn't have one yet! I go into Paris this Sunday and I'm so nervous! I hope people really go for it, but I don't think it will be a problem :)
As well, I have 2 - thats right, 2!!! - more wedding sign-ups for this year. As well as another that might be in the works! That puts me to 5 this year (counting the one in December) altogether! I feel like I'm actually getting somewhere with this. I feel like I am accomplishing something with this. We'll see where it gets me!
In other news, I have been going to the gym A LOT in the last couple weeks - I think I've only missed one day. I am doing a bunch of ab routines, so I am starting to see my stomach and hips slim down. Beach bod by summer? Definitely :)
Anyway, that is my life update for the last little while. So nervous/excited about the weekend. I can't wait! If anyone has any ideas out there about what I can bring (besides the obvious business cards, samples, and camera) please let me know!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Keeping Up with Social Media and Edits
Some days I wish I had a personal assistant.... seriously. If I had one, I would make him/her edit, check my e-mails, and update every status I seem to need to keep updated. I feel like I am constantly on the computer trying to tell the world what I am doing on a daily basis.
Why do I do this? Well... because I want people to see my business and have my stuff actually get out there. Most of all, I want people to hopefully see that I am a hard-working, down-to-earth individual who is trying her best to do a great job. I know that sometimes I try way too hard and take on way too much, but why not try too hard than not enough, right?
This past week has been the end of my on-purpose holiday procrastination. I managed to earn a few extra bucks by importing/exporting some tapes, sold off my old tires from the Ford, and completed a bunch of exporting and re-edits for my work. I even managed to sign up for free Google Ads (I got a coupon in the mail) and have a meeting about a wedding occurring this summer. I've been pretty busy all week.
I also kicked it into high gear again with the gym. I went swimming, started going on the treadmill, and did a Body Sculpt class (which is still killing me slowly, 3 days after the fact). The goal now is to have slimmed down hips and abs by March, when I hopefully plan to take a vacation. I had planned on going to Newfoundland next week, but with the new car, that clearly won't be happening.
Anyway, that's my update for the week. Hope you like the new layout!
Why do I do this? Well... because I want people to see my business and have my stuff actually get out there. Most of all, I want people to hopefully see that I am a hard-working, down-to-earth individual who is trying her best to do a great job. I know that sometimes I try way too hard and take on way too much, but why not try too hard than not enough, right?
This past week has been the end of my on-purpose holiday procrastination. I managed to earn a few extra bucks by importing/exporting some tapes, sold off my old tires from the Ford, and completed a bunch of exporting and re-edits for my work. I even managed to sign up for free Google Ads (I got a coupon in the mail) and have a meeting about a wedding occurring this summer. I've been pretty busy all week.
I also kicked it into high gear again with the gym. I went swimming, started going on the treadmill, and did a Body Sculpt class (which is still killing me slowly, 3 days after the fact). The goal now is to have slimmed down hips and abs by March, when I hopefully plan to take a vacation. I had planned on going to Newfoundland next week, but with the new car, that clearly won't be happening.
Anyway, that's my update for the week. Hope you like the new layout!
Saturday, January 8, 2011
My Start to the New Year
Well, I think this week just proves that acting under pressure is the best way to achieve anything. I can't believe I started Monday night with a broken car, and by Friday I was driving a new one. If anyone else has ever had to make a HUGE purchase under pressure, you know how I felt - a little crazy, exhausted and sick of looking into your bank account. However, it was so worth it in the end. Here's a re-cap of my week:
Monday: After a great New Years weekend, I was driving home after 11. I was pulling off the 401 when I noticed my battery light came on. I chose a few choice words to yell at the car, but these worked to no avail - ALL the emergency lights came on, and the car just shut off. After this had happened the previous Friday (I had thought that it was the gas gauge then - this time I had a full tank), I knew exactly what I needed to do - get off the road as quickly as possible. So, I rolled down the exit, and pulled off the road onto the curb. I then waited and tried to start the car again - this worked, but as I drove for 2 blocks, I saw the car was going to do the same thing again - all the lights kept dimming, the radio shut off - so I pulled off the main road. Just as this happened - of course, the car died again. I managed to roll into a parking lot, and called CAA. If anyone has ever thought you couldn't get their money's worth out of a CAA card, it was me. After talking with the CAA driver, I thought the best idea would be to bring the car to Canadian Tire - Obviously there is an electrical problem with the car. I had just had the alternator switched out a couple months back - I figured I would get my money's worth out of the 2 year warrantee that came with it. Time home - approx. 1:30am
Tuesday: I somehow managed to get up at 6:30am and catch the bus into work. I called Canadian Tire and told them what happened to the car. After performing a diagnostic test, the guy called me back to say there was nothing wrong with the car.
My thoughts at that moment: REALLY?!!! You're telling me I just decided to shut the car off mid-drive willingly?!? I should let you drive the thing in the middle of the night and have it mysteriously shut off on you.... on a bridge, as you hit a patch of black ice....
My words at that moment: What do you think it could be? Is there any other tests that can be done?
After a consistent no from Canadian Tire, I took it to Ford over my lunch break. Surely enough they would find something wrong. Around 3 that afternoon, the lady I was dealing with came back with the same message as Canadian Tire - there was nothing wrong with the car. She had done 2 different tests - one that hooks it up to the electrical, one that hooks it up to the engine - and nothing was coming back wrong. She said that the technician had taken it for a drive himself and it died within 6 minutes of him driving it. She told me that she had a guess of what it might be - something to do with an AIC (?) - and that to get to it would cost $100 an hour. To fix the piece would cost about $400.
This was when I decided enough was enough. I had tossed $1500 into that car over the last 3 months, and to add another piece into that car wasn't going to make it any better in the long run. I asked her if I could talk to a sales rep to see how much I could get for the car. I told her I needed a new car by Thursday as I had to get to work. She put me in touch with a sales rep and I made an appointment to see him after work.
After the bus ride over to the dealership, I sat down and talked to the rep. He told me he didn't think he could get more than $700 for my car, but with a promotion they had going on, they could put it towards a decent car. He showed me the prices for 2 cars - one used and one new. I said the used car (a 2007 focus with 40,000kms on it) was more in my budget. He said the warrantee was still good for another year and a half, and I could extend the warrantee to 85,000 kms (which is supposed to be 4 years, but would only be 2 seeing as there were already 40,000kms on the car) if I wanted to. I said alright, as I thought that this was my only option at the time. I said I would go home and sleep on it before I signed on the papers. Time home - approx. 9:30pm
Wednesday: I got up at 6:30 once again to get to work. I called Ford and made an appointment that afternoon to sign the papers.
Now, while all this was happening, I was dreaming about a new Hyundai - the 2011's were really fancy, spacious, and the warrantee couldn't be beat (5 years/100,000kms bumper-bumper with $0 down for repairs - Ford's would have been $100 down and I would have had to extend the one that was already on the car). I thought, why shouldn't I try?
So I called Hyundai and asked what they thought - they said they had a $4000 rebate on their 2010 Hyundai Elantra's right now, that they could give me $1200 for my car, and could give me the new Elantra for the same price (of course with more money down from the Focus) as what Ford was going to give me for the used car! They could also get me a loaner car for Thursday if the car wasn't in, and I could have the car by Friday!!! SCORE!!! I made the appointment to see him after work that afternoon and nearly gave the guy a hug once I was approved :P I drove home with the loaner car and basically lazed around all night.
Oh ya, I completely forgot about calling Ford back to cancel (I had called and moved it to after I saw Hyundai).... he called me, asking where I was, and I told him all about the deal Hyundai had given me. Take that!
Thursday: I drove into Woodstock, well-rested (but sick) and worked. I didn't like how the loaner car (a 2003 Accent in better shape than my old car) drove... it seemed to have a mind of it's own and kick into 4th gear whenever it wanted to... so I crashed in Ingersoll for the snowy night. I managed to get the insurance set up for the car (which was a nice 1.5 hour chat) and somehow got property insurance and auto insurance for cheaper than if I just got auto insurance itself. I figured that was the best deal I was going to get!
Friday: I GOT THE NEW CAR!!! I was so excited :) I have never had a car with heated seats, and this just made it worth it :P So happy I decided to get it - I feel so much safer on the road. Its like a weight is lifted off my shoulders and I don't have to worry so much about unexpected costs.
For those of you who would like to see my car - check out my Facebook :)
Well, there is my week - craziness!!! Now to catch up on the wedding and demos.
Have a good one!
Monday: After a great New Years weekend, I was driving home after 11. I was pulling off the 401 when I noticed my battery light came on. I chose a few choice words to yell at the car, but these worked to no avail - ALL the emergency lights came on, and the car just shut off. After this had happened the previous Friday (I had thought that it was the gas gauge then - this time I had a full tank), I knew exactly what I needed to do - get off the road as quickly as possible. So, I rolled down the exit, and pulled off the road onto the curb. I then waited and tried to start the car again - this worked, but as I drove for 2 blocks, I saw the car was going to do the same thing again - all the lights kept dimming, the radio shut off - so I pulled off the main road. Just as this happened - of course, the car died again. I managed to roll into a parking lot, and called CAA. If anyone has ever thought you couldn't get their money's worth out of a CAA card, it was me. After talking with the CAA driver, I thought the best idea would be to bring the car to Canadian Tire - Obviously there is an electrical problem with the car. I had just had the alternator switched out a couple months back - I figured I would get my money's worth out of the 2 year warrantee that came with it. Time home - approx. 1:30am
Tuesday: I somehow managed to get up at 6:30am and catch the bus into work. I called Canadian Tire and told them what happened to the car. After performing a diagnostic test, the guy called me back to say there was nothing wrong with the car.
My thoughts at that moment: REALLY?!!! You're telling me I just decided to shut the car off mid-drive willingly?!? I should let you drive the thing in the middle of the night and have it mysteriously shut off on you.... on a bridge, as you hit a patch of black ice....
My words at that moment: What do you think it could be? Is there any other tests that can be done?
After a consistent no from Canadian Tire, I took it to Ford over my lunch break. Surely enough they would find something wrong. Around 3 that afternoon, the lady I was dealing with came back with the same message as Canadian Tire - there was nothing wrong with the car. She had done 2 different tests - one that hooks it up to the electrical, one that hooks it up to the engine - and nothing was coming back wrong. She said that the technician had taken it for a drive himself and it died within 6 minutes of him driving it. She told me that she had a guess of what it might be - something to do with an AIC (?) - and that to get to it would cost $100 an hour. To fix the piece would cost about $400.
This was when I decided enough was enough. I had tossed $1500 into that car over the last 3 months, and to add another piece into that car wasn't going to make it any better in the long run. I asked her if I could talk to a sales rep to see how much I could get for the car. I told her I needed a new car by Thursday as I had to get to work. She put me in touch with a sales rep and I made an appointment to see him after work.
After the bus ride over to the dealership, I sat down and talked to the rep. He told me he didn't think he could get more than $700 for my car, but with a promotion they had going on, they could put it towards a decent car. He showed me the prices for 2 cars - one used and one new. I said the used car (a 2007 focus with 40,000kms on it) was more in my budget. He said the warrantee was still good for another year and a half, and I could extend the warrantee to 85,000 kms (which is supposed to be 4 years, but would only be 2 seeing as there were already 40,000kms on the car) if I wanted to. I said alright, as I thought that this was my only option at the time. I said I would go home and sleep on it before I signed on the papers. Time home - approx. 9:30pm
Wednesday: I got up at 6:30 once again to get to work. I called Ford and made an appointment that afternoon to sign the papers.
Now, while all this was happening, I was dreaming about a new Hyundai - the 2011's were really fancy, spacious, and the warrantee couldn't be beat (5 years/100,000kms bumper-bumper with $0 down for repairs - Ford's would have been $100 down and I would have had to extend the one that was already on the car). I thought, why shouldn't I try?
So I called Hyundai and asked what they thought - they said they had a $4000 rebate on their 2010 Hyundai Elantra's right now, that they could give me $1200 for my car, and could give me the new Elantra for the same price (of course with more money down from the Focus) as what Ford was going to give me for the used car! They could also get me a loaner car for Thursday if the car wasn't in, and I could have the car by Friday!!! SCORE!!! I made the appointment to see him after work that afternoon and nearly gave the guy a hug once I was approved :P I drove home with the loaner car and basically lazed around all night.
Oh ya, I completely forgot about calling Ford back to cancel (I had called and moved it to after I saw Hyundai).... he called me, asking where I was, and I told him all about the deal Hyundai had given me. Take that!
Thursday: I drove into Woodstock, well-rested (but sick) and worked. I didn't like how the loaner car (a 2003 Accent in better shape than my old car) drove... it seemed to have a mind of it's own and kick into 4th gear whenever it wanted to... so I crashed in Ingersoll for the snowy night. I managed to get the insurance set up for the car (which was a nice 1.5 hour chat) and somehow got property insurance and auto insurance for cheaper than if I just got auto insurance itself. I figured that was the best deal I was going to get!
Friday: I GOT THE NEW CAR!!! I was so excited :) I have never had a car with heated seats, and this just made it worth it :P So happy I decided to get it - I feel so much safer on the road. Its like a weight is lifted off my shoulders and I don't have to worry so much about unexpected costs.
For those of you who would like to see my car - check out my Facebook :)
Well, there is my week - craziness!!! Now to catch up on the wedding and demos.
Have a good one!
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